Officials: Next wave of H1N1 on its way

March 11, 2010

WASHINGTON — Though reports of the H1N1 influenza A (swine flu) virus have decreased steadily in recent weeks, health officials warn that another wave may be on the horizon just waiting to strike, according to the Gazette.

In America, roughly 80 million individuals have been infected with the H1N1 virus, resulting in approximately 360,000 hospitalizations and 16,000 deaths, the story stated.

Marita Mike, health director at the University of MarylandCenter for Health and Homeland Security, said: "It wouldn''t be surprising to see another peak this year. When you look at flu outbreaks in the past, there were multiple peaks. The best time to get vaccinated is before everyone gets sick. We saw this flu start initially in the summer."

Continued education of the public, including promoting hand hygiene and thorough cleaning, is vital to control the virus'' spread, the story noted.

Though many individuals and organizations have been proactive in preventing the virus, the WHO and the CDC warn against complacency and urge everyone to remain vigilant, the story added.